Moral support for athletes

All set: Famemas supporters for Laos SEA Games.

ELECTRICIAN Zakariah Md Nor will be soaking up the electrifying atmosphere watching the Malaysian athletes in action at the 25th edition of SEA Games at Vientiane in Laos from Dec 12-19.

The 50-year-old from Rawang is part of the Kelab Famemas Kuala Lumpur and Selangor supporters’ group to provide moral and vocal support to the national hopefuls featuring at the biennial games.

Although Zakariah considered travelling to Laos on his own initially, he agreed that it will be a more significant outing along with 11 other hard-core sports followers in the group.

“When I found out that they are making the trip there, I signed up immediately. I have also paid the cost of RM2,800 in full to show my commitment in joining them. It is going to be an exciting period to mingle and bond with others sharing the common interest.

“I am not afraid of venturing into the unknown territory to learn about the Laotian culture. I am also looking forward to experiencing their warm hospitality,” said Zakariah, adding that cycling is his favourite event.

Even without the strong financial funding, they are determined to make their presence felt in their fourth appearance at the regional games.

They made their debut in Vietnam (2003) followed by another two outings in the Philippines (2005) and Thailand (2007).

Club chairman Lee Hui Seng praised the committee members for their contributions.

“Previously, we had up to 50 fans in the group for SEA Games. But we are not allowing the setback to prevent us from continuing our pursuit to throw our support behind the Malaysian athletes vying to win honours for the country.

“It is a partly sponsored trip and we will be paying at least half of the expenses for the eight-day trip,” Lee said.

Recently, they acknowledged the six partners including the venue sponsor IJM for backing their initiative.

Among the sponsors are Privasia Technology Berhad, UMW Pennzoil Distributors, Westports Malaysia, National Sports Council and UDA Holdings Bhd.